Vienna is known for being called the ‘city of music’. As the place where Mozart, Beethoven and Haydn composed some of their most famous works the origins of the city’s music title is obvious. However what the Austrian capital has done in the years since that period of classical fame suggests that the metropolis has every reason to proclaim itself as a musical city.
While music organisations have been promoting the arts in Vienna since 1812, the urban area’s theatres and local orchestra have maintained the city’s classical music reputation over the years.
As if to rebel against such music the largest city in Austria has also developed a vibrant metal and heavy rock scene. The city’s most popular festivals are headlined by the biggest names in the hard rock world, while there are venues and record stores dedicated to fulfilling fans of such music.
The underground electronic scene has also provided Vienna with even more sonic diversity as fans and musicians alike have labelled the urban sprawl as having one of the best electronic scenes in the world.
Modern folk is termed as ‘Schrammelmusik’ by locals and is stylised by an accordion and a double-necked guitar. Its place in Austrian music is of no less value or quality as the aforementioned music scenes within Vienna.
With such diversity and history the city’s reputation for being one of the leading cultural developers in Central Europe is justifiable.
For tourists this mecca provides an incredible opportunity of reliving important musical history and experiencing a city’s music scene in the one stay. Few other cities in the world have such historical depth and modern day excellence to showcase.
With various festivals, theatre, opera, exhibitions and concerts all regularly held there are a plethora of opportunities for people to sample the Austrian arts.
Tourism features such as a Mozart walk and local museums that feature the local music history allows international visitors to learn and appreciate just how much of a role Vienna has played in the history of not just classical music, but music in general.
Vienna Festivals/Conferences
Nova Rock Festival
As not only one of Austria’s but Europe’s biggest festivals this event draws over 90,000 people over three days in June each year. As you would have guessed by the title the festival books big name rock acts with Linkin Park, Metallica, Slipknot, The Smashing Pumpkins and System Of A Down featuring at the festival since its inception in 2005. Rammstein headlined the 2013 lineup along with 30 Seconds To Mars, Kiss and Kings Of Leon.
http://www.novarock.at
Frequency Festival
While the 2013 event will be headlined by System Of A Down, Tenacious D, Empire Of The Sun, James Blake, Regina Spektor and Fall Out Boy over three days in August, the festival had modest beginnings. First held in 2001 with just six artists Frequency has steadily grown into a festival that has in the past attracted the likes of Nine Inch Nails, Interpol, Kasabian, Radiohead, and Muse. Promoted by one of Austria’s biggest radio stations the festival allows for fans of alternative music a chance to see some of the world’s biggest acts.
http://www.frequency.at
Donaufestival
Each April this festival is held outside of Vienna in the city of Krems with avant-garde, performance art, noise and electronic artists featured on the lineup. Held over ten days the festival features art installations, theatre performances, films and panels. The likes of Fuck Buttons, Deerhoof, Simian Mobile Disco, Peaches, Dinosaur Jr. and Rufus Wainwright have all performed in the past.
http://www.donaufestival.at/
Vienna Record Stores
Substance, Westbahnstrasse 16, http://www.substance-store.com
Widely considered as one of Vienna’s premiere record stores Substance specializes in not only the best of new music, but also underground variations of indie, electronica and jazz. Shirts, posters and second hand books are also for sale in this establishment, which from time to time hosts in-store performances.
Totem Records, Zollerg 18-20, http://www.totem-records.com
Founded in 1998 this store is home to all kinds of heavy music. Independent and in a somewhat isolated location Totem is open everyday except Sunday. This establishment sells music and merchandise from black and death metal, doom, neo-folk and ambient bands. An interesting collection of DVDs and books are also for sale.
Transformer, Kettenbrückengasse 1, http://www.transformermusic.at
Coffee, cake and music. What more is there to life? With a diverse selection of records and tapes the store also boasts fair trade coffee and vegan cake. By night the establishment turns into a venue with DJ and music performances. Transformer proudly displays the DIY culture of Vienna in all its glory.
Vienna Music Venues
Flex, Abgang Augartenbrücke, www.flex.at
With names like Pete Doherty, Arcade Fire and Pendulum all playing here before it is no surprise that this establishment is one of the most popular indie venues in Vienna. With acts of various different genres hitting the stage at Flex since the 90s, its reputation for having an incredible sound system has grown stronger over the years. Located below a train station Flex is opened seven days a week.
Pratersauna, Waldsteingartenstrasse, http://www.pratersauna.tv/
Originally opened as a sauna in 1965 this area is used as a social life and arts space. Although more commonly known now for its use as an electro club the venue is as industrial as it gets. With certain areas of the building still under construction the shabby charm of Pratersauna is modern, but with a 60s bent in style. The popular electronic venue also has a garden and pool open during the summer months.
Fluc Wanne, Praterstern 5, http://www.fluc.at
Considered as one of the best alternative music spots in its area this establishment hosts the latest indie and electronic acts. Underground on the Wanne level techno reigns supreme while on the ground Café level you’ll find indie acts. Named as one of the best small rooms in Europe by Swedish DJ Sven Väth, Fluc Wanne is essential for those looking to experience Vienna’s alternative music scene.
Vienna Acts You Should Check Out
Kitty In A Casket – Soundcloud
Pigeon-holed in the horror punk category the band’s name is inspired lead singer Kitty Casket. Founded in 2008 the four-piece released two mini albums in 2009 before their debut, Back To Thrill, eventually dropped in 2011. The punk band just released their sophomore effort, Bittersweet, in 2013.
3 Feet Smaller- Soundcloud
Formed in 2000 this punk rock band has released five albums over the course of their career. With such inspired album titles as Damn, We Need A Title For This Record for their debut and 3rd Strike for their third album the band have supported The Offspring before and played countless shows across Europe.
